The History Of Double Stroller
What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and have thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as a smooth ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller came in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also liked that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase of many families. You'll want to think about the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you are looking to purchase a tandem stroller, you should consider one with child seats that are attached. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They may not fit through standard doors in your home.
If your children are a different age, you may want to consider a stroller that has two seats that can be turned into a stand-and ride model. This will allow a child to watch or ride with their sibling. These in-line strollers are also capable of accommodating infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
Billingsley advises that you must be aware of the material you choose for your seat. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it is to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transporting it between your vehicle and home. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're seeking a low-cost option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It has two toddler seats as well as an infant bassinet. It can be converted into a triple stroller by adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is ideal for those times when one child needs to sleep while the other wants take in the surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into the majority of trunks.
Age Variations
For families with children who are similar to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for both children and convenience. These strollers have a seat in the front for an infant or toddler and a platform, bench or another surface at the rear which allows older children to stand up or hop on/off. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do not have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos in the park. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't offer as much storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seats.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile buying a stroller that will continue to adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you choose them wisely, you'll save money in the end.
Our testers took each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road excursions. They found them easy to maneuver on a variety terrain. However, if you're planning to use it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you might want something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, however the seats may be worn out earlier than you anticipate or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget look into one that has been rated for at least four years and aims to last as long as you can.
Easy of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller can be moved easily and is able to be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact the top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the easiest to push.
A double stroller must be easy to fold and put away. The best lightweight double stroller models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a plus that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways, with options to add an additional seat or ride-along board. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, so you don't need to wake up your baby to transfer them into their stroller once they're ready to head home.
In addition, a good double stroller must be durable to be able to be used on different types of terrain. Some of them can be converted into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some come with cargo baskets which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers tend to be bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and crowded grocery store aisles. They do offer the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate through in stormy weather because they offer more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents decide to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it for a newborn and then switch to a regular double stroller with infant car seat when their children are older. After talking to parents we've learned that it's best to get what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what your family will require in the future.
Storage
When shopping for a double-stroller, it's important to consider the amount of storage available and the dimensions. A lot of models have large, easy-to access baskets that can store plenty of stuff. Many models also come with multiple cup holders for parents, as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom possible for children. Certain of these features could add to the price so make sure you read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double pushchairs with quick fold technology strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side models. tandem double stroller strollers are two seats on one frame, and are best for older children who can sit unassisted. They tend to have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats positioned side by side and are generally for babies and toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting yet. They also have the added benefit of being generally easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.
There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for biking and jogging. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and come with fixed front wheels, which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these kinds of activities.
There's a double stroller for any situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins or a child that's not yet ready to ride on their own or not quite old enough. Our top choices are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, as well as seating that grows with your child's. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top picks to choose the right double stroller for your family.